"It’s time for bold, justice-centred commitments"
Richard Kalu, PhD student in the Department of Geography, reflects on the need a for strong, inclusive approach to climate justice:
"The spotlight on the Loss and Damage Fund at COP29 underscores a pivotal moment for addressing the historic inequities of climate change. For regions like Nigeria, where my research explores the intersections of climate, security, and subaltern insurgency, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The cascading effects of climate insecurity, from displaced communities to escalating conflicts over dwindling resources, demand immediate and equitable solutions.
As we negotiate frameworks for reparative justice and resilience-building, I’m hopeful that COP29 moves beyond rhetoric to deliver actionable outcomes. The inclusion of marginalized voices, particularly those living on the frontlines of climate insecurity, is essential to creating policies that reflect lived realities. The decisions made here could be transformative—or yet another missed opportunity to address the systemic roots of climate injustice.
It’s time for bold, justice-centred commitments that not only tackle the immediate challenges of loss and damage but also empower vulnerable communities to imagine and create sustainable futures."